Ralf SchwiegerThe nose · 32 fragrances · also made Christopher Street (2012)Portrait →Will you like it? Mark a few fragrances you own or love and we'll tell you.
Etat Libre d'Orange · Sold as unisex
Philippine Houseboy
The bustling energy of a tropical kitchen — where fresh spices mix with the scent of coconut and warm aromatics, creating an atmosphere that is both vibrant and inviting.
Full bottle: Premium tier, typically $100–250. Links open each seller's own page. We may earn a commission; it never changes the order.
Philippine HouseboyPremium · $100–250
36%Similar accords, often for lessCK One Shock Street Edition for Him · Calvin KleinMid-range tier, $40–100 · shares mojito and citruses8 matches →How it wears
From community votes · bars are each option's shareComposition & Character
The story behind the bottle.
Philippine Houseboy by Etat Libre d'Orange, launched in 2012 and crafted by perfumer Ralf Schwieger, is an aromatic fougere that challenges traditional notions of fragrance. It opens with a bright citrus-and-spice accord that is both fresh and warm, leading into a heart of green notes and coconut that adds unexpected depth. The base brings together cinnamon and other spicy elements, creating a composition that is daringly complex yet cohesive.
This fragrance has a strong presence but remains close to the skin. Apply two sprays for a balanced experience — the citrus notes will fade within an hour, allowing the spicy and aromatic base to shine through. It reads better in cooler settings where its warmth can be fully appreciated.
Fig. 01 — Philippine Houseboy, Etat Libre d'Orange
Where to buy.
Wear it for a week first
A decant costs a fraction of a bottle and tells you how it lasts on your skin.
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Ralf Schwieger
Ralf Schwieger once took part in a perfume contest that Frédéric Malle had staged for young perfumers.
Designer Etat Libre d'Orange
More from the house · France
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Goldfield & Banks AustraliaBohemian LimeEDP · ★ 4.09Similar notes and accordsStill deciding?Try the Scent Finder →Love it, not the $100–250 price?
Matched by accords and notes. Sample first, then decide.
The originalPhilippine HouseboyEtat Libre d'Orange · Premium · $100–250Calvin Klein · 2012CK One Shock Street Edition for HimShares Mojito and Citruses$40–100★ 3.92 (171)35%Match
Hugo Boss · 2009Hugo XY Summer EditionShares Cardamom and Cinnamon$40–100★ 3.60 (30)37%Match
Zara · 2019BlueshapeShares Cardamom and Citrusesunder $40★ 3.62 (13)35%Match
Ajmal · 2019Gold ManShares Cardamom and Cinnamonunder $40★ 3.42 (12)
With Etat Libre d'Orange Above the Waves
Adds woody and amber; shares five accords.
Suggested from accords and notes · not yet tried by wearers
What people
are saying.
Respected, if divisive: loved by 47%, disliked or hated by 29%.